Revised Regulations for Academic High Schools
The government has approved an updated set of regulations for lyceums (academic high schools), outlining fresh approaches to specialized education, admissions, and the organization of senior-level learning. These changes are part of the shift toward a three-year specialized upper secondary system under the New Ukrainian School (NUS) reform. The rollout will happen in stages: starting September 1, 2026, for 150 pilot lyceums, and from September 1, 2027, for all academic lyceums across the country. A lyceum is now defined as a strictly academic institution.
Core Requirements and Innovations
Every lyceum must offer at least three academic streams covering three main clusters:
- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
- Languages and Literature
- Social Sciences and Humanities
If a lyceum is the only one in its community, it must provide at least one stream from each cluster. Students may change their chosen stream only by submitting a request and after mandatory counseling. Lyceums are also allowed to create rotating and cross-class groups to make learning more flexible.
Student assessment can use one of three grading scales: pass/fail, a four-level system (P/S/D/V), or a 12-point numeric scale. Admissions to the 10th grade will be competitive only if the number of applications exceeds available spots. In such cases, the lyceum must publish its competition rules on its website no later than three months before the enrollment period begins.
Under the new learning structure, the format of instruction will be determined by the situation, including considerations for shelter availability due to martial law. Additionally, a lyceum may set up a dedicated facility for teaching the 'Defense of Ukraine' subject. The first pilot phase of the reform began on September 1, 2025, involving 30 lyceums across 19 regions, and the full new network is scheduled to be operational by September 1, 2027.
'The implementation will be phased: from September 1, 2026, for 150 pilot lyceums, and from September 1, 2027, for all academic lyceums,' the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine stated.
These changes to lyceum education reflect Ukraine's commitment to improving educational quality and adapting to modern needs. The updated regulations aim to equip students with knowledge that meets labor market demands and supports their comprehensive development. The phased approach allows for a measured introduction of reforms, which may help reduce risks associated with transitioning to a new education system.
As these new regulations come into effect, it's essential to understand the broader context of educational reforms in Ukraine. The changes outlined in the upcoming school system transformation through 2027 highlight the government's commitment to enhancing academic standards and adapting to the needs of modern students.